Shark Discovery Day at the AquariumFar from scary man eaters, sharks actually play an important role in ocean ecosystems.http://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark/news/shark-discovery-day-at-the-aquariumhttp://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark/news/shark-discovery-day-at-the-aquarium/@@download/image/shark biopark.jpeg

Shark Discovery Day at the Aquarium

Far from scary man eaters, sharks actually play an important role in ocean ecosystems.

July 12, 2018 - For many people, the word shark conjures visions of man-eating "Jaws-esque" monsters. But for every human killed by a shark, humans kill approximately 2 million sharks.

More than 450 species of sharks cruise the world's oceans, but these sea creatures are disappearing worldwide. Learn more about these incredible predators and what you can do to help them during the ABQ BioPark Aquarium's Shark Discovery Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on July 14.

"Sharks play an important role in the world's ocean ecosystems, as they help to keep a healthy balance in the ocean," said Pamela Dupzyk, ABQ BioPark Aquarium education coordinator. "Many sharks are threatened with extinction because of human demand for their fins, meat, leather, liver and gills. Learn about the challenges sharks face and how your actions matter"

Special discovery stations will educate visitors about sharks' unusual senses, including the ability to pick up electric currents given off by other animals in the water. BBC's "Perfect Shark," will play throughout the day in the Aquarium Theater.

The ABQ BioPark Aquarium is home to black tip, sand tiger, sandbar, nurse and zebra sharks.